New Pike Road tennis courts open to community

The new year marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for the Dream Court of Montgomery.

Jessica Weyreuter, founder and president, witnessed her dream come true on Dec. 11, 2014 at the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new tennis courts adjacent to the Miracle League baseball field, 1655 Ray Thorington Road.

This was the product of months of hard work, gathering donations equal to over $200,000 and the dedication of a committed Board of Directors.

The Dream Court will meet a need for members of our community who have different kinds of disabilities. However, the program focuses more on the abilities of each player. They feel that the joy of tennis belongs to everyone, and therefore they welcome individuals of all ages and abilities.

Tennis has the potential to be a life time sport with many benefits to mind and body. That is why the program adapts to every skill level.

Another aspect of their program is that they focus on inclusion, active life style, positive self-esteem and appropriate social behavior. Weyreuter feels this is all accomplished while having fun on the tennis court.

The mission of the program is "Serving hope, changing lives". In the short time the program has been offered in our area, they have seen great results. Their long term vision is to offer these same opportunities to a larger group of individuals with special needs in the Montgomery area.

The program offers three sessions: Spring (March and April), Summer (June and July) and Fall (September and October). In the Spring of 2015, they will meet on Saturday 7, 14, 21 and 28 of March and 4, 11, 18, 25 of April. The times are 9-10 a.m. for wheelchair tennis, 10-11 a.m. for adaptive tennis level 2 and 11 a.m. to noon for adaptive tennis beginners.

The cost is $25 per month. The Spring sign up is now open, and they encourage all athletes and volunteers to fill out registration form and send it via email or by mail as soon as possible.

In order to participate as an athlete or as a volunteer, everyone is required to fill out the registration form prior to Feb. 21, 2015. They offer scholarships through their partnership with the Montgomery Center for Independent Living.

MCIL is a 501(c)(3) organization that helps people with all types of disabilities in Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties to fully participate in their communities.

They do this by providing them education, skills training, advocacy, and peer support. Their website is www.cilmontgomery.org. You can find more information on upcoming events and other services they provide.

The program would not be possible without the commitment of dedicated volunteers. Last year they had 30 participants and 60 volunteers. This year, they are anticipating a greater number of participants. This means they will definitely need more help. Dream Court is constantly searching for individuals who would like to be a part of this great mission.

These individuals need to be people who want to make a positive impact while serving as positive role models for their athletes. They know and understand the power of passion versus knowledge and skill level as a tennis player. That is why they offer many opportunities to become involved. Coaches range from high school students to senior citizens.

Ideally, they commit to an 8 week-long program. They divide athletes based on skill level. They also lead in warm ups, introduce grips and strokes, toss balls, and provide guidance and encouragement. Buddies are another important aspect of the program. They must be at least 11 years old and ideally commit to a season.

This helps build the bond and trust necessary to develop a very special relationship with the athlete. They help guide the athlete and provide support and encouragement while ensuring the player's safety.

Other off-court volunteer opportunities include: information/check in, social media, photographer, awards and fundraising events and cheering on the stands.

Another important way you or your business can get involved which involves no time is to donate money. Dream Court is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization that relies heavily on donations. Although the courts are built and ready for use, they will require maintenance. That requires funding.

All donations are fully tax deductible, so if you are able to contribute in some way you will be making a huge difference for a local special needs person and their family and friends without making too much of a sacrifice.

You can make donations via PayPal or credit card on their website at www.dreamcourt.org. You may also mail checks payable to Dream Court to: 3027 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36106. For more information call 414-1980.